Jonathan Barahona

Second Theology
Theological College
Home Parish: St. Martin of Tours, Gaithersburg

Oldest of three children. Was studying education prior to entering seminary. Favorite store is Trader Joe's.

My life before the seminary:

I was born in the District of Columbia and my family moved to Gaithersburg, Maryland when I was a child. Before seminary I was studying to become a teacher. I was also working three jobs as an assistant at City Hall in Gaithersburg, as a parking enforcement officer for the City of Gaithersburg Police Department, and as a lifeguard and pool manager for the aquatics departments of both Gaithersburg and Rockville.

What convinced me to enter seminary:

What convinced me to enter seminary was the realization that the priesthood was not a career, but rather an invitation to love in a different way as a man. The love of Christ, especially as it is found in the Eucharist, is what moved my heart to say yes to seminary.

Other interests include:

Listening to music (I’m known to be a great DJ at events), reading literature, writing poetry, swimming, discovering new places to eat, and most of all, spending time with friends.

A calling to the sacred priesthood of Jesus Christ is one of the most beautiful gifts that a Catholic man can receive.